Overview & Reviews

At its debut, the Buick Rainier added a bit of diversity to the brand's rather uniform lineup. Joining a family of mostly big, softly sprung sedans, this truck-based, midsize SUV became the first Buick in a long time with traditional body-on-frame construction and rear-wheel drive (with optional all-wheel drive), enabling it to carry a considerable amount of cargo (80 cubic feet) and tow heavy loads (up to 6,700 pounds).

Buick sourced the majority of Rainier's design from General Motors' midsize SUV platform. This meant that there wasn't much variation between it and its GM sport-ute brethren like the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy and Oldsmobile Bravada -- the third of which the Rainier effectively replaced when the Olds division was discontinued.

Of this core SUV grouping, the Buick Rainier was meant to be the most comfortable and upscale. Buick's exclusive rear air spring suspension made the Rainier the most successful at concealing ruts in the road, and the effects of Buick's "QuietTuning" could be heard in its near-silent interior. The Rainier also earned a bit of initial distinction as it was the only regular-length SUV of the bunch to offer an optional V8 engine. (The Rainier was never offered in extended-length seven-passenger form.) Finally, Buick's SUV came with the most standard equipment.

Sadly, all the extra effort didn't cure the Buick Rainier of its deepest family flaws. The combination of a high stance, high weight, a softly tuned suspension and a live rear axle penalized handling on several fronts. Handling was sloppy even by truck-based SUV standards. The Rainier's numb steering needed continual corrections to hold a straight line and its rear end felt loose and unstable in extreme handling situations. It also guzzled more gas than any modern Buick, and its interior was marred by cheap and mismatched materials, illogical controls, a lack of storage space, subpar build quality and fatiguing seats.

The Rainier partly redeemed itself with smooth and strong powertrains, competitive acceleration and a plush, quiet ride. But compared to other competing upscale SUVs, Buick's entry failed to completely deliver in the important categories of refinement, feature content and handling. For consumers shopping used midsize SUVs, we suggest taking a look at more qualified and desirable vehicles such as the Mercury Mountaineer, Toyota 4Runner or Volkswagen Touareg. Another good option is Buick's new large crossover SUV, the Enclave.

Most Recent Buick Rainier

The Rainier debuted for 2004 and received minor changes over its four-year run. Initially it was offered in CXL and CXL Plus trim levels with the six-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque and the 290-hp (320 lb-ft) V8 available as an option. Aside from its significant increase in torque, the V8 also featured a cylinder deactivation system that saved a little fuel when cruising. Either way, a four-speed automatic transmission was standard, and both engines were available with rear- or all-wheel drive.

The following year, Buick dropped the Plus trim and the optional front seat-mounted side airbags. In their place, full-length side curtain airbags became available. In 2006, stability control became standard, the inline-6 gained 16 hp for a total of 291 and the V8 was pumped up to 300 hp.

The Buick Rainier midsize SUV was discontinued after 2007, its final model year, to make way for the vastly superior Enclave. At this point there was one well-equipped model, the CXL. Standard equipment included alloy wheels, an auto load-leveling suspension, dual-zone climate control, a CD player, power front seats, leather upholstery, antilock brakes, traction control and stability control. Major options included a navigation system and a rear-seat entertainment system.

If you're shopping for a used Buick Rainier, we'd advise confining your search to the '06 and '07 model years to ensure you get a Rainier with stability control, a feature we consider especially important given this SUV's less-than-ideal handling dynamics.

User Reviews:

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  Best SUV for the Price and Features IMHO - 2004 Buick Rainier
  By Subhash Bhattacharyy - January 13 - 2:00 am

  Just purchased a 2004 Buick Rainier. Went with the 2004 for the 3000 savings, and with 7000 in additional incentive from GM, I got one heck of a deal. The ride is smoother than the MDX, 4-Runner or Sequoia. Love the quiet interior, best built American SUV.

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  I love this SUV! - 2004 Buick Rainier
  By DMK - January 6 - 2:00 am

  I looked at all the mid-size SUVs and narrowed down to the Lexus 330 and the Rendezvous. I am a loyal Buick customer, but didnt like the looks of the Rendezvous. I was really impressed when the Rainier was available. It looks great and drives like a dream. I also got a great deal on the vehicle. Lexus refused to move off sticker price.

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  LOVE IT:) - 2004 Buick Rainier
  By LIN - January 6 - 1:03 am

  I bought my Rainier in August and I cannot say enough about it. It rides beautifully. WHen I am talking on my cell phone no one even knows I am in my car that is how QUIET it rides. Only thing that I can see is that the gas mileage isnt the greatest but which SUV has great mileage? Thanks BUICK.....

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  Rainier - 2004 Buick Rainier
  By dedapr - December 22 - 6:34 am

  Very responsive and fun to drive. The V8 gives enough power.

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  What were they thinking? - 2005 Buick Rainier
  By G. Toll - December 12 - 2:05 pm

  For a car with a $38000 sticker, it was quite a surprise to learn what this car doesnt have, like - a second remote key, a valet key, a glovebox and under- hood light, and even a coat hanger. It does have a smooth, quiet ride, but you wouldnt expect on a test drive to have to search for items you would expect to find in a car costing one-third less. Buying this car is getting taken for a ride.

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  Happy Driver - 2005 Buick Rainier
  By viking1 - December 11 - 2:03 pm

  This vehicle is quiet and smooth. The bose premium sound, multiple cd player and satellite reception are tremendous. My previous vehicle was a yukon which was great and trouble free but this Ranier is outstanding. The 6 cylinder engine is lively and it will jump when you need it.

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  Buick Scores well - 2005 Buick Rainier
  By J. Mazza - December 7 - 2:35 pm

  Great highway performance. Quiet/solid feel. V8 runs well with reasonable gas milage. Has all the bells one requires for an SUV. excellent radio/Cd sound system. Confortable seats.

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  Classy Ride - 2005 Buick Rainier
  By Bob Stack - December 7 - 10:53 am

  Very quiet and smooth car like ride.Lots of city driving so its difficult to judge mileage.V-6 is just OK.

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  Fabulous!! - 2004 Buick Rainier
  By annettem - November 19 - 2:00 am

  This is the 5th SUV we have owned in the last 7 years and so far, the best!! We have owned 3 Ford Explorers and a Mercedes Benz. They all ride hard; the Benz being a little more comfy but still not adequate. The Rainier is very smooth riding, which is paramount to us in an SUV. The heat/AC system is perfect..no fooling with knobs adjusting temps. all the time. The cabin is extremely quiet,supportive but comfortable seats, excellent audio (we didnt opt for the Bose) and a joy to drive. Car steers and handles very well. The outside design of the car is classy. Buick has come through with a gem.

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  One Great SUV - 2004 Buick Rainier
  By vnique - November 19 - 2:00 am

  This is a great SUV that gives a great ride that is quiet. The seats are very comfortable, especially with the adjustable lumbar support. This SUV makes driving a pleasure again.